If you’ve invested in dental implants, you’ve made an excellent decision. As the only treatment to mimic both the tooth root and the crown, you benefit from a solution that looks and feels natural. With over a 95% success rate and the potential to last for decades, you probably never expected to experience any complications, like sensitivity. Although it may not be concerning initially, it can be a sign of a big problem. Here’s what you need to know to stop the pain and prevent dental implant failure.
Causes of Dental Implant Sensitivity
After your mouth has healed, you shouldn’t experience any discomfort. If you’re having sensitivity, it isn’t coming from the implant itself because it doesn’t have any nerve endings. Instead, it originates from the surrounding tissues. Here are just a few reasons you might be having sensitivity:
- Gum Infection: The biggest threat to the long-term success of dental implants is a preventable infection called peri-implantitis. It is like gum disease and can destroy the supporting structures of your dental implants. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care can prevent the infection.
- Overcrowding: An implant placed in an area with overcrowded teeth can cause complications, like pain.
- Food Impaction: Food trapped in the gums near the implant can cause irritation and inflammation. Brushing and flossing may help free the debris.
- Tissue or Nerve Damage: Improper placement of the posts can cause nerve or tissue damage.
- Allergic Reaction: Implant posts are made of titanium, which is biocompatible and poses minimal risks of adverse reactions. However, allergic reactions can occur in rare cases.
- Bruxism: Grinding and clenching your teeth can damage your dental implants. They can loosen and fall out with no treatment, like a nightguard. It will provide a protective barrier between your top and bottom teeth to protect your implants.
Signs of Dental Implant Failure
Dental implant failure can cause various symptoms that can gradually worsen, like:
- Tender, Swollen Gums
- Receding Gums
- Difficulty Chewing
- Pain or Discomfort
- Implant is Loose
If you have sensitivity or any signs of dental implant failure, do not wait to see a dentist. Your dentist will pinpoint the source of your discomfort to create a personalized treatment plan to save your smile.
About Dr. Shruti Sharma
Dr. Sharma earned her dental degree at Himachal Dental College in India and achieved a secondary dental degree at the University of Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine. She regularly continues her training to provide the most up-to-date services, like dental implants. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (254) 274-2662.